The Strategic Planning Manager presented a report detailing the Issues and Options document which represented the first public consultation in the process of preparing a new Local Plan to replace the adopted Core Strategy 2011 and Allocations and Development Management Plan 2015. The document reflected other strategic documents of the Council in particular, the Corporate Plan, Community Plan and the housing and economic development strategies. Evidence for the consultation had been assembled over a two year period. An eight week consultation will be followed by a period when responses would be assessed and a draft Local Plan prepared for further public consultation.

The Planning Advisory Committee had considered the report and had agreed to recommend to Cabinet.  The Chairman and Vice Chairman of that Advisory Committee both spoke in support of the recommendation and it was agreed that both of them, and not just the Chairman, would be consulted by the Chief Planning Officer when finalising consultation questions and any non-substantive text amendments.

The Chairman had agreed to exercise his discretion and allowed a member of the public to address the Committee.

Public Sector Equality Duty

Members noted that consideration had been given to impacts under the Public Sector Equality Duty.

Resolved:  That

a)   the Sevenoaks District Local Plan 2015 – 2035 Issues and Options document be agreed for public consultation; and

b)   the finalisation of consultation questions and any non-substantive text amendments required in the document be delegated to the Chief Planning Officer following consultation with the Planning Portfolio Holder and Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Planning Advisory Committee.